Rail regulator, the Office of Rail and Road (ORR), has today (Thursday 30 October) approved Virgin Trains’ application for access to Temple Mills International depot. Please see the Rail Minister's response below:
Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy said: "I am incredibly pleased on the ORR’s decision to open up spare capacity at Temple Mills depot, which marks a significant step towards growth and a more competitive international rail market. Allowing Virgin Trains to share this vital facility will give passengers greater choice, better value and improve connectivity for millions, as well as drive innovation, lower fares and promote greener connections with Europe.
“While this decision is an important first step, we recognise there is significant interest in this and depot capacity should not be a barrier to greater competition and growth. We are therefore exploring plans to establish new depot capacity in the UK, supported by private investment, to meet the needs of the market and will set out further plans in due course.
“We will also continue to champion the reopening Ashford and Ebbsfleet International stations as a priority to restore full connectivity, support tourism and boost growth across the region.”